Abstract (inglese)

This research systematically investigates how Romans managed humid areas and which drainage works were carried out to improve the conditions of such lands. In order to do that, it was important to focus the concept of wetland in modern ages and which lands might be considered accordingly. The analysis of classic sources provided the key to understand the latin terminology referred to these environments. This allowed their identification and to establish their relationships with Romans. The next step was the exam of the archaeological sources in order to exclude all the water supply network and to focus on those of water management. Disciplines like hydrogeology, hydraulic engineering and agronomy were necessary to better analyse the nature of ancient working and to organize the collected data. Eventually, all the structures related to the drainage systems within the roman centuriations framework were examined.This research represents a detailed analysis of the interactions among man, environment and waters. In addition, it focuses on how Romans were very well experienced in such matters and how such hydraulic techniques have been continuously carried on since Roman times.